Santa Cruz City Council 04/14/2026

The Santa Cruz City Council held a meeting on April 14, 2026, which included a variety of public comments on topics such as water rates, immigrant rights, and community events. The council recognized Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Government Finance Professionals Week, highlighting the importance of financial stewardship and community safety. Key procurement-related discussions included a budget adjustment for the Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit project and the procurement of a natural gas front-loading garbage truck for $630,000. The council also discussed opioid settlement funds totaling approximately $15,359 to be used for crisis abatement. Additionally, the council considered amendments to the Santa Cruz City Charter, including changes to commission creation procedures and anti-nepotism policies, with plans for a second public hearing and eventual voter consideration. Several consent agenda items were approved unanimously, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve city governance and financial management.